Winnipeg Jets Prospects Series: LW Carl Klingberg

Carl Klingberg is a second-round draft pick, taken 37th overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft for the Atlanta Thrashers. The 6'3'', 205-pound winger came from Goteborg, Sweden where he grew up as a hockey player.

In his development, Klingberg played for Frolunda HC in the Swedish Elite League, where he lined up as a fourth-line player. He knows how to play well defensively, finishes his checks and has some scoring ability as a forward.

Despite being given very little ice time in Frolunda, Klingberg managed six goals and seven assists for 13 points in 42 games in the 2009-10 season.

Coming over to North America last summer, 21-year-old Klingberg has made the transition to play professionally in the AHL. With the size advantage that Klingberg possess, and also the familiarity of playing with men in Sweden, Klingberg has shown some progress with his development.

In his rookie season (2011-12) on the AHL St.John's IceCaps, Klingberg has scored 15 goals and racked up 22 assists for 37 points in 66 regular season games. He also played in 12 playoff games, adding two points.

Also, the Winnipeg Jets called up Klingberg to play six games last season, but he did not figure into the score sheet.

The projection for Carl Klingberg becoming a professional player in the NHL is likely as a checking-line winger on the Jets' third line. He has the size to be a punishing force, and he does use that to his advantage. He also plays well defensively, so that will earn him more ice time as a role player in the NHL.

Are you excited about Carl Klingberg joining the Jets in the near future?

1. Yes, he will bring an element of size and skill that will benefit the Jets.2. No, he won't be much of a difference maker.Submit Votevote to see results

Are you excited about Carl Klingberg joining the Jets in the near future?

1. Yes, he will bring an element of size and skill that will benefit the Jets.

67.1%

2. No, he won't be much of a difference maker.

32.9%

Total votes: 70

What Klingberg has to do this summer is come to training camp in the best shape of his career and give the coaches something to think about at training camp.

He may not be ready to jump in the NHL right away this October, but he could catch the eye of Jets coach Claude Noel and earn some call-ups during the regular season.